What technology does the Intoxilyzer 9000 use to detect ethanol in breath?

The Intoxilyzer 9000 utilizes infrared spectrometry to detect ethanol in breath. This technology operates by measuring the absorption of infrared light by the breath sample as it passes through a sample chamber. Ethanol molecules have specific absorption characteristics in the infrared range, allowing the device to identify and quantify the concentration of ethanol based on the amount of light absorbed.

As breath passes through the device, it interacts with infrared light, and the amount of absorption at certain wavelengths indicates the presence and concentration of ethanol. This method is favored in breath analysis because it is quick, direct, and effective for this specific application.